JIM Magilton has made Francis Jeffers his number one summer signing target.Blackburn last night allowed the striker to stay with the Blues on loan until the end of the season but Ipswich are looking to make the move permanent.

By Derek Davis

JIM Magilton has made Francis Jeffers his number one summer signing target.

Blackburn last night allowed the striker to stay with the Blues on loan until the end of the season but Ipswich are looking to make the move permanent.

The EADT can reveal that wages would not be a stumbling block after learning that the former Everton, Arsenal and England striker is not on a prohibitive salary at Ewood Park and even though still has a year left on his contract Ipswich could afford to take it on filly and offer him a longer deal.

It would mean 26-year-old Jeffers being among the club's highest earners but as an experienced senior professional and proven goal-scorer manager Jim Magilton believes it is a worthwhile investment.

Jeffers made a big impact during his first loan period with a goal in the 5-2 win at Hull City and was hugely influential around the club, especially for the young players.

Magilton said: “Franny has been immense around the place and I'm delighted to get him back. I would love for him to stay and there is nothing to really stand in the way from our point of view but much depended on Blackburn.”

A hamstring tear cut short his stay but Jeffers showed terrific commitment to Ipswich by firstly turning down a raft of other clubs who wanted to take him on loan and then by insisting he wanted to return to Portman Road to prove his fitness and stay for the remainder of the season.

Blackburn last night approved an extension to his loan spell until the end of this campaign and it is understood they have shown a willingness to allow him to leave in the summer if a deal can be agreed.

Jeffers is receptive to the idea of a switch but is just focusing on getting fit and hopefully being available to play against Barnsley next weekend.

He said: “I will get to the end of the season here and then review the situation in the summer.”

Jeffers will resume full training on Monday and is eager to get involved again.

He said: “Everyone has been great to me at Ipswich since I first arrived, especially the fans, and I couldn't wait to get back. It is great to be back and I want to do my bit to help Ipswich move up the table.”